Flamengo issued an official statement regarding the confusion recorded during fan access to the Mineirão Stadium for the Libertadores match against Cruzeiro, thanking the actions of the Minas Gerais Military Police.
The match between Cruzeiro and Flamengo, valid for the Libertadores last Wednesday (12), was marked by tension beyond the field. Hours before kickoff, crowds and confrontations around the Mineirão mobilized security forces.
In response to the incidents, the Rio de Janeiro club officially positioned itself, seeking to clarify the reasons for the difficulties faced by the fans. Mais Querido (The Most Beloved, a nickname for Flamengo) emphasized that maintaining order in stadiums requires a joint task force, involving organizers, police authorities, and, above all, fan awareness.
According to the club, the behavior of some attendees contributed to the chaotic scene registered at the entrances designated for visitors.
Reasons for the conflict
According to the Rubro-Negro‘s (a nickname for Flamengo) statement, the late arrival of many fans, combined with the presence of individuals without tickets and attempts to access sectors not corresponding to their purchased tickets, created an operational bottleneck.
The club pointed out that these practices hinder inspection efforts and pose risks to collective safety.
Flamengo understands that ensuring a safe and organized experience in stadiums is a responsibility that involves clubs, authorities, organizers, and also the collaboration of all fans.
The statement highlighted the official note.
Tensions and fan reports
Despite the official version, several fans present at the stadium reported inefficient access management on social media. Images circulating online showed military police officers using pepper spray and batons to disperse the crowd that had gathered at one of the gates.
The recurrence of problems in major games in Belo Horizonte was a recurring point in the criticism from fans who attended the stadium.
Upcoming commitments
Flamengo‘s focus now shifts to the Brazilian Serie A. The team will travel to face Mirassol this Sunday (16), at 6:30 PM (Brasília time), at the Maião stadium. The match will be broadcast by Record, Premiere, and CazéTV.
Following that, the club will determine its future in the Libertadores. After a 1-1 draw in the first leg, Flamengo will host Cruzeiro at the Maracanã next Wednesday (19), at 9:30 PM. The decisive duel will be broadcast by Rede Globo.
For more updates on the daily life of the Rubro-Negro, follow the coverage from the Equipe M360.
